Automated contentColombian authorities implemented comprehensive care protocols and air traffic management at several terminals across the country. Ernesto Cortissoz Airport in Barranquilla, located in Soledad, Atlántico. Photo: Vanexa Romero/El TiempoJOURNALIST10.10.2026 07:51 Updated: 10.10.2026 07:51
Colombia's Civil Aeronautics and the Barranquilla Mayor's Office announced the launch of a contingency and humanitarian assistance plan this October 10, 2026, following the 7.7 earthquake in Panama. The measure seeks to mitigate the impact on regional air navigation and provide support to passengers affected by changes in itineraries to that Central American country. SEE ALSO Activation of regional protocols and flight diversionsDue to the disruption of navigation services in Panamanian airspace caused by the seismic activity, Aerocivil enabled alternate terminals in San Andrés, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Cali, Rionegro, and Montería to receive aircraft in transit. People wait outside a hotel in Panama. Photo: EFEIn the case of Barranquilla's Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, a total of 16 flights initially bound for Panama City were redirected to its tarmac. Operational coordination allowed 8 of these aircraft to later depart for their original destination. However, 8 flights had to be definitively canceled, activating the corresponding protocols for travelers. In other Caribbean cities, such as Cartagena and San Andrés, the diverted aircraft have already completed their departures, while the flight from Santa Marta is about to land in Panamanian territory. Passenger care in BarranquillaThe contingency resulted in the prolonged stay of more than 1,280 passengers at the Barranquilla air terminal facilities. In response, the district administration and the aeronautical authority established coordinated work with the airlines Copa Airlines and Wingo to ensure operational safety and passenger care. SEE ALSO As part of the immediate assistance, more than 600 units of water were provided, along with juices and snacks for travelers and crews, complemented by additional food deliveries through the service operator. Likewise, the responsible airlines began hotel management procedures in the capital of Atlántico to relocate those affected by cancellations and overnight itinerary changes. Flights to Panama were diverted to different airports in Colombia. Photo: Tocumen International Airport. Local authorities and airport staff indicated that they will continue monitoring the progress of operations until there is a full normalization of itineraries and complete assistance for users affected by the natural phenomenon in the Central American nation. This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence. Follow all the news from Colombia on Facebook and Twitter, or in our weekly newsletter.
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